How to Use a Credit Report to Stop Identity Theft

In an attempt to empower consumers to protect themselves from identity theft, the federal government has passed a law which allows every resident of the United States to annually obtain a copy of their credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus free of charge. It is a good idea to monitor your credit report to detect and stop identity theft.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Go to the annual credit report website to request copies of your credit reports. You will need to enter identifying information about yourself to access the reports. If you choose to access your reports online you will be able to view them immediately.

2. Download and print the required request form if you would prefer to send your request through the mail and receive a printed copy of the reports mailed to you. It will take a few weeks to get the reports if you do it this way. The mailing address is available at the website.

3. Call 1-877-322-8228 to request your credit reports be mailed to you if you do not have access to a computer or the Internet.

4. Carefully review your credit reports after you receive them. There are three major credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. However you request the reports, be sure you request them of all three companies. Check each report carefully for any discrepancies between the reports as well as any information about your financial situation that is not correct.

5. Notify the credit card company or the debtor that is indicated next to the erroneous data on your report immediately if you find debt showing that you have no knowledge of.

6. Contact the fraud department at all three of the credit bureaus. Tell them you are a victim of identity theft and they will be able to help you handle the problem.

7. File an identity theft report with your local police department.

Resources

• Request your free report at Annual Credit Report.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How strong is your score?  Did you know checking your own credit won’t affect your score? Click here to see yours in two easy steps from Experian.